Kenny Shiels is in no position to pick and choose his big break in football management, but even he must be wary of the pitfalls that lie ahead. As the Northern Irishman, who has been caretaker manager of Kilmarnock since April, was given the job on a permanent basis yesterday, doubts persisted about the overall direction of the club.

Confirming what was the worst-kept secret of Scottish football’s close season, Kilmarnock paraded Shiels at Rugby Park, together with Jimmy Nicholl, who will be his assistant. Neither needs any introduction to the club, with whom they have signed a one-year contract.